SUPPORT ELEMENT FOR AN AEROSOL-GENERATING PRODUCT

Abstract

The invention relates to a support member for an aerosol-generating article. The support member comprises an array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements are parallelly arranged. A plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member intersects each inner hollow tubular element.

Description

[0001] SUPPORT MEMBER FOR AN AEROSOL-GENERATING ARTICLE

[0002] The present invention relates to a support member for an aerosol-generating article. The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article. The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating system. The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing the support member.

[0003] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such devices may heat aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate are volatilised without burning the aerosolforming substrate. Aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosolgenerating article into a cavity, such as a heating chamber, of the aerosol-generating device. A heating element may be arranged in or around the heating chamber for heating the aerosolforming substrate once the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

[0004] Articles for an inhaler, such as for a dry powder inhaler may have a component for storing dry powder, such as a capsule. The capsule may be located within a substrate portion of the article. The capsule can be activated by being pierced by a separate piercing element. Once the capsule has been activated, or pierced, a consumer may use the inhaler article by drawing on the mouth end (downstream end or proximal end) of the inhaler to generate an air flow through the inhaler. As air flows through the inhaler article, the capsule rotates about itself inside the substrate portion of the inhaler article. The agitation of the capsule and the air flow pressure causes the release of dry powder from the pierced capsule. The released dry powder is carried by the air flow to the mouth of a user. The article may comprise a support member that retains the capsule in the substrate portion before piercing, during piercing, after piercing, and during use.

[0005] Articles are often manipulated before and during use. For example, the articles may be subjected to longitudinal and radial pressures as they are manufactured, packaged, unpackaged, inserted into devices, activated, used and discarded. Articles are not always fully suitable to withstand this manipulation.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide an article providing improved stability. It would be desirable to provide an article providing sufficient rigidity to resist longitudinal force. It would be desirable to provide an article providing sufficient rigidity to resist radial force. It would be desirable to provide an article with sufficient stability to withstand compression forces exerted during one or more of manufacturing, packaging and use of the article. It would be desirable to provide an article having sufficient rigidity to resist deforming or crushing of the article when the capsule of article is pierced. It would be desirable to provide an article that is simple and cost-effective to manufacture. It would be desirable to provide an article offering improved sustainability. It would be desirable to provide a biodegradable article. It would be desirable to provide a biodegradable support member. It would be desirable to provide a recyclable support member. It would be desirable to provide a biodegradable support member providing sufficient rigidity to the article during one or more of manufacturing, packaging and use of the article. It would be desirable to provide an article offering an improved user experience. It would be desirable to provide an article providing improved cooling of aerosol to be delivered to the consumer. It would be desirable to provide an article offering improved alignment of the capsule in the article.

[0007] The invention relates to a support member for an aerosol-generating article. The support member may comprise an array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements may be parallelly arranged. A plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member may intersect each inner hollow tubular element.

[0008] The invention relates to a support member for an aerosol-generating article. The support member comprises an array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements are parallelly arranged. A plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member intersects each inner hollow tubular element.

[0009] The support member may provide improved stability of the aerosol-generating article. The support member may provide sufficient rigidity to resist longitudinal force exerted on the aerosol-generating article. The support member may provide sufficient rigidity to resist radial force exerted on the aerosol-generating article. The support member may provide the article with sufficient stability to withstand compression forces exerted during one or more of manufacturing, packaging and use of the article. The support member may provide sufficient rigidity to the article to resist deforming or crushing of the article when the capsule of the article is pierced. One or both of the article and the support member may be simple and cost-effective to manufacture. The article comprising the support member may offer improved sustainability. The article comprising the support member may be a biodegradable article. The support member may be a biodegradable support member. The support member may be a recyclable support member. The support member may be a biodegradable support member providing sufficient rigidity to the article during one or more of manufacturing, packaging and use of the article. The article comprising the support member may offer an improved user experience. The article comprising the support member may provide improved cooling of aerosol to be delivered to the consumer. The article comprising the support member may offer improved alignment of the capsule in the article. The array of inner hollow tubular elements may be assembled from individual inner hollow tubular elements. The support member may consist of the array of inner hollow tubular element.

[0010] The inner hollow tubular element may comprise a wall. The wall may enclose a cavity of the inner hollow tubular element. The wall may have a substantially circular cross-section. The wall may have a skewed circular cross-section. At least a portion of the wall of one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged to abut at least a portion of the interior surface of an outer hollow tubular element discussed below. At least a portion of the wall of one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged to abut at least a portion of the wall of one or more other inner hollow tubular element.

[0011] The longitudinal axis of the support member may extend between a distal end of the support member and a proximal end of the support member. One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged radially outward of the longitudinal axis of the support member. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged to radially abut one or more other inner hollow tubular element. The inner hollow tubular elements may not be co-linearly arranged. Each inner hollow tubular element may be arranged along or radially outward of the same section of the longitudinal axis of the support member. At least two of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged side-by-side.

[0012] Each inner hollow tubular element may extend through the plane extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member. Each of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the inner hollow tubular element may extend between a distal end of the inner hollow tubular element and a proximal end of the inner hollow tubular element. The plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member may intersect the longitudinal axis of each inner hollow tubular element. The longitudinal axes of the inner hollow tubular elements may be parallelly arranged. The longitudinal axes of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged parallelly to each other. The longitudinal axis of each inner hollow tubular element may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support member. The longitudinal axis of each inner hollow tubular element may be arranged orthogonal to the plane.

[0013] Each inner hollow tubular element may be intersected by the same plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member.

[0014] The support member may be free of cellulose acetate. The support member may be free of a plastic. The inner hollow tubular elements may be free of cellulose acetate. The inner hollow tubular elements may be free of a plastic. The array may be free of cellulose acetate. The array may be free of a plastic. As used herein, the definition of the support element or of a component of the support element as being free of a plastic may exclude the adhesive discussed below. In other words, when the support element or a component of the support element is described as being free of a plastic, the adhesive discussed below may still comprise a plastic.

[0015] The array may be configured such that a proximal end of the array is in fluid communication a distal end of the array. The inner hollow tubular element may be configured such that a proximal end of the inner hollow tubular element is in fluid communication a distal end of the inner hollow tubular element, preferably via the cavity of the inner hollow tubular element.

[0016] One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be made from a first material. The first material may comprise a cellulosic material. The first material may consist of a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be a cellulosic paper-based material. The cellulosic material may be one of paper, paperboard, molded paper fiber and cardboard. The first material may not be cellulose acetate. The first material may be free of cellulose acetate. The first material may be free of a plastic.

[0017] The inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be simple and cost effectively produced. The inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be biodegradable. The inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be recyclable. The support member comprising inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be simple and cost effectively produced. The support member comprising inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be biodegradable. The support member comprising inner hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be recyclable.

[0018] The support member may comprise the cellulosic material. The support member may consist of the cellulosic material. The support member may be made from the cellulosic material.

[0019] The support member made of cellulosic material may be biodegradable. The support member made of cellulosic material may be recyclable. The structure of the support member of the present invention may give the support member made from the cellulosic material sufficient rigidity to withstand external pressure exerted during one of manufacture, packaging and use of the support member or an article containing the support member.

[0020] One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be made from a second material. The second material may different to the first material. The second material may be free of cellulose acetate. The second material may be free of a plastic.

[0021] The second material may be configured to provide resistance against compression forces exerted on the inner hollow tubular element made from the second material. The second material may be configured to provide a higher resistance against compression forces exerted on the inner hollow tubular element made from the second material than the first material.

[0022] The second material may be a thermally insulating material. The second material may be configured to provide stability at temperatures of below 400 degrees Celsius, preferably of below 350 degrees Celsius, and more preferably of below 300 degrees Celsius.

[0023] A length of a component may refer to the spatial extension of the component along a longitudinal axis of the component. A longitudinal axis of a component may extend between a distal end of the component and a proximal end of the component.

[0024] One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular cross-section. All of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular crosssection.

[0025] One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a circular cross-section. All of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a circular cross-section. One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a skewed circular cross-section. All of the inner hollow tubular elements may have a skewed circular cross-section.

[0026] The inner hollow tubular elements having a substantially circular cross-section may be simple and cost effectively produced. The support member comprising inner hollow tubular elements having a substantially circular cross-section may be simple and cost effectively produced.

[0027] A cross-section of the inner hollow tubular element may refer the intersection of the inner hollow tubular element in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the inner hollow tubular element.

[0028] Each inner hollow tubular element may have a same diameter.

[0029] The diameter may be the diameter of an inner hollow tubular element having a substantially circular cross-section. The diameter of one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may be different from the diameter of one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0030] Each inner hollow tubular element may have a same length.

[0031] The length may refer to the spatial extension of the inner hollow tubular element along a longitudinal axis of the inner hollow tubular element.

[0032] The length of each inner hollow tubular element may be essentially the same as the length of the outer hollow tubular element. The length of each inner hollow tubular element may be essentially the same as the length of the support member.

[0033] The distal ends of the inner hollow tubular elements may be aligned in a plane extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member. The proximal ends of the inner hollow tubular elements may be aligned in a plane extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member.

[0034] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut one or more other inner hollow tubular elements. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0035] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to contact one or more other inner hollow tubular elements. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to contact at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0036] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to at least two other inner hollow tubular elements. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled by an adhesive to one or more other inner hollow tubular element. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled by an adhesive to at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0037] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be glued to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be glued to at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0038] Inner hollow tubular elements may be coupled using an adhesive. Inner hollow tubular elements may be coupled to each other using an adhesive. One or more inner hollow tubular element may be coupled to the outer hollow tubular element described below using an adhesive. The adhesive may be arranged between the coupled inner hollow tubular elements.

[0039] The array may comprise two inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of two inner hollow tubular elements.

[0040] The two inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut each other. The two inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to each other. Both inner hollow tubular elements may have substantially circular cross-section. The diameter each of the two inner hollow tubular elements may correspond to half an inner diameter of the outer hollow tubular element described below. Both of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Both of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. The array may comprise three inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of three inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a triangular array. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in an equilateral triangular array.

[0041] A triangular array may refer to an arrangement in which, for each vertex of an imaginary triangle, the central longitudinal axis of an inner hollow tubular elements discussed herein extends through the vertex and is arranged orthogonal to the plane of the triangle. A triangular array may refer to an array containing three inner hollow tubular elements in which each of the three inner hollow tubular elements abuts both other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0042] Each of the three hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the other two inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the three inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the other two inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the three inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular cross-section. The diameter of each of the three inner hollow tubular elements may be the same. Each of the three inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the three inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below.

[0043] The triangular array of inner hollow tubular elements may provide an improved airflow. The support member comprising the triangular array of inner hollow tubular elements may be cost effectively produced. The support member comprising the triangular array of inner hollow tubular elements may be simple to produce.

[0044] The array may comprise four inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of four inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a rectangular array. The inner hollow tubular elements may be cubically packed.

[0045] A rectangular array may refer to an arrangement in which, for each vertex of an imaginary rectangle, the central longitudinal axis of an inner hollow tubular elements discussed herein extends through the vertex and is arranged orthogonal to the plane of the rectangle.

[0046] Each of the four hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut two of the other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the four inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to two other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the four inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular cross-section. The diameter of each of the four inner hollow tubular elements may be the same. Each of the four inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the four inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. The array may comprise five inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of five inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a pentagonal array. The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a regular pentagonal array.

[0047] A pentagonal array may refer to an arrangement in which, for each vertex of an imaginary pentagon, the central longitudinal axis of an inner hollow tubular elements discussed herein extends through the vertex and is arranged orthogonal to the plane of the pentagon.

[0048] Each of the five hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut two of the other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the five inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to two other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the five inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular cross-section. The diameter of each of the five inner hollow tubular elements may be the same. Each of the five inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the five inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below.

[0049] The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a hexagonal array.

[0050] The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged in a regular hexagonal array.

[0051] A hexagonal array may refer to an arrangement in which, for each vertex of an imaginary hexagon, the central longitudinal axis of an inner hollow tubular elements discussed herein extends through the vertex and is arranged orthogonal to the plane of the hexagon. Additionally, in a hexagonal array, the central longitudinal axis of a further inner hollow tubular element discussed herein may extend through the centre of the hexagon and may be arranged orthogonal to the plane of the hexagon.

[0052] The array may comprise six inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0053] Each of the six hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut two of the other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to two other inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may have a substantially circular cross-section. The diameter of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be the same. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below.

[0054] The array may comprise a centrally arranged inner solid tubular element. The central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner solid tubular element may extend through the centre of the hexagon and may be arranged orthogonal to the plane of the hexagon. The six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged around the centrally arranged inner solid tubular element. The inner solid tubular element may have substantially circular cross-section. The inner solid tubular element may be made from a cellulosic material. The six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element may be hexagonally packed. The array may comprise six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element, wherein the six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element are hexagonally packed. The array may consist of six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element, wherein six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element are hexagonally packed.

[0055] A central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner solid tubular element may extend along a central longitudinal axis of the support member. The six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged radially outward of the longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner solid tubular element. A central longitudinal axis of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged on an imaginary hexagonal cylinder coaxially arranged around the longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner solid tubular element. The centrally arranged inner solid tubular element may be configured to abut each of the six inner hollow tubular elements. The centrally arranged inner solid tubular element may be configured to be coupled to each of the six inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below.

[0056] The inner solid tubular element may enhance the ability of the array to withstand compression forces exerted on the array. The inner solid tubular element may stabilize the array.

[0057] The inner solid tubular element may be configured to abut the capsule discussed below. The inner solid tubular element may be configured to support the rotating capsule discussed below. The inner solid tubular element may comprise a face. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be configured to be smooth. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be configured to be flat. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be configured to have a low frictional coefficient. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be arranged at a distal end of the inner solid tubular element. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be the distal end face of the inner solid tubular element. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be arranged in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the inner solid tubular element. The face of the inner solid tubular element may be configured to abut the capsule discussed below. The face may be configured to provide a low friction contact surface for the rotating capsule. The inner hollow tubular elements may be hexagonally packed.

[0058] The array may comprise 3*n*(n-1)+1 inner hollow tubular elements, n may be a natural number equal or greater than 1. Preferably, n is equal to 1.

[0059] The array may comprise seven inner hollow tubular elements. The array may consist of seven inner hollow tubular elements. The array may comprise seven inner hollow tubular elements which are hexagonally packed. The array may consist of seven inner hollow tubular elements which are hexagonally packed.

[0060] The hexagonally packed array of seven inner hollow tubular elements may provide an improved balance of an appropriate airflow through the article and the stability of the article. The hexagonally packed array of seven inner hollow tubular elements may improve the stability of the article.

[0061] The hexagonally packed array may comprise a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element. The central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may extend through the centre of the hexagon and may be arranged orthogonal to the plane of the hexagon. A central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may extend along a central longitudinal axis of the support member. The hexagonally packed array may comprise six inner hollow tubular elements arranged radially outward of the central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element. A central longitudinal axis of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged on an imaginary hexagonal cylinder coaxially arranged around the longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to abut each of the six inner hollow tubular elements. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to be coupled to each of the six inner hollow tubular elements. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element discussed below. Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut at least two other of the six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0062] The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may extend along a central longitudinal axis of the support member. The central longitudinal axis of the support member may extend between the distal end of the support member and the proximal end of the support member.

[0063] The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be coupled to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be coupled by an adhesive to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be glued to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0064] The six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element. The six inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged around a longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element.

[0065] A reinforcing element may be provided within the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be filled with a reinforcing material. The reinforcing material may be a cellulosic material. The reinforcing material may be a paper-based material. The reinforcing material may be one of paper and cardboard. The reinforcing element may be made from the first material discussed above. The reinforcing element may be made from the second material discussed above.

[0066] The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be made from the second material. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to withstand compression forces exerted on the array of inner hollow tubular elements. The reinforcing element may be configured to enhance the ability of the array to withstand compression forces exerted on the array. The reinforcing element may stabilize the array.

[0067] The support member may comprise an outer hollow tubular element having an interior surface and defining an interior cavity of the support member. The array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged at least partially, preferably fully within the interior cavity of the support member. The array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged fully within the interior cavity of the support member. At least a portion of the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0068] The outer hollow tubular element may be free of cellulose acetate. The outer hollow tubular element may be free of a plastic. The inner hollow tubular elements and the outer hollow tubular element may be free of cellulose acetate. The inner hollow tubular elements and the outer hollow tubular element may be free of a plastic.

[0069] The array may extend across the cavity of the support member. A diameter of the array may match a diameter of the cavity.

[0070] The array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element at two or more contact areas. The number of contact areas may correspond to the number of inner hollow tubular elements of the array. The number of contact areas may correspond to the number of inner hollow tubular elements of the array arranged at a periphery of the array.

[0071] The outer hollow tubular element may comprise a wall. The wall may have a substantially circular cross-section. The wall may have a skewed circular cross-section. An inner surface of the wall of the outer hollow tubular element may be the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. The wall may at least partially circumscribe the interior cavity of the support member. The wall may at least partially enclose the interior cavity of the support member. An outer surface of the wall may form part of the outer surface of an aerosolgenerating device.

[0072] The array may be contained in the interior cavity of the support member. The outer hollow tubular element may at least partially circumscribe the array. The outer hollow tubular element may fully circumscribe the array. The outer hollow tubular element may fully surround the array.

[0073] The array may be configured to stabilize the outer hollow tubular element.

[0074] The outer hollow tubular element may be made from a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be a cellulosic paper-based material. The cellulosic material may be one of paper, paperboard, molded paper fiber and cardboard.

[0075] The outer hollow tubular element made from the cellulosic material may be simple and cost effectively produced. The outer hollow tubular element made from the cellulosic material may be biodegradable. The outer hollow tubular element made from the cellulosic material may be recyclable. The support member comprising the outer hollow tubular element made from the cellulosic material may be simple and cost effectively produced. The support member comprising the outer hollow tubular elements made from the cellulosic material may be biodegradable. The support member comprising the outer hollow tubular element made from the cellulosic material may be recyclable.

[0076] The outer hollow tubular element may have a substantially circular cross-section. The outer hollow tubular element may have a circular cross-section. The outer hollow tubular element may have skewed circular cross-section.

[0077] The outer hollow tubular element having a substantially circular cross-section may be simple and cost effectively produced. The support member comprising the outer hollow tubular element having a substantially circular cross-section may be simple and cost effectively produced.

[0078] A cross-section of the outer hollow tubular element may refer to the intersection of the outer hollow tubular element in a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0079] The diameter of each inner hollow tubular element may be smaller than the diameter of the outer hollow tubular element. The diameter of the outer hollow tubular element may be the diameter of the outer hollow tubular element having a substantially circular cross-section.

[0080] The outer hollow tubular element may be configured as an array wrapper at least partially circumscribing the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements. The outer hollow tubular element may be configured as an array wrapper fully circumscribing the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0081] The array wrapper may be a paper wrapper.

[0082] At least a portion of the array may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. At least a portion of the array may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0083] The array may be arranged to be in contact with the wall of the outer hollow tubular element. The array may be arranged to be in contact with the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element at one or more contact areas. The array may be arranged abutting the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0084] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at a periphery of the array may be arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0085] At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive. At least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at a periphery of the array may be arranged to be coupled the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0086] At least a portion of each of six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. In the hexagonally packed array, at least a portion of each of six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0087] At least a portion of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. At least a portion of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element may be configured to be coupled by an adhesive to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0088] The support member may have a length of between 3 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 5 millimeters and 9 millimeters, and more preferably of between 6 millimeters and 8 millimeters. The array of hollow tubular elements may have a diameter of between 3 millimeters to 11 millimeters, preferably of between 4.8 millimeters and 9.8 millimeters, and more preferably of between 6.5 millimeters and 7.5 millimeters.

[0089] The diameter of the array of hollow tubular elements may refer to a diameter of an imaginary circle in a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the array of hollow tubular elements touching the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at a periphery of the array.

[0090] One or more of the inner hollow tubular elements may have an inner diameter of between 1 millimeter and 7 millimeters, preferably of between 1.5 millimeters and 6 millimeters, and more preferably of between 2 millimeters and 5.53.8 millimeters.

[0091] The support member may have a weight of between 20 grams and 700 grams, preferably of between 40 grams and 400 grams.

[0092] The adhesive may be selected from one of water-based adhesive, starch-based adhesive, cellulose-based adhesive, rubber-based adhesive and polyvinylactate adhesive.

[0093] The adhesive may be a biodegradable adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to the portion of the inner hollow tubular element abutting the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. The adhesive may be applied to the portion of the inner hollow tubular element abutting another inner hollow tubular element. The adhesive may be arranged between an inner hollow tubular element and the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. The adhesive may be arranged between two inner hollow tubular elements. The adhesive may be arranged between two neighboring inner hollow tubular elements. The adhesive may be arranged at a contact area between the inner hollow tubular element and the outer hollow tubular element. The adhesive may be arranged at a contact area between inner hollow tubular elements.

[0094] The coupling may enhance the rigidity of the array. The coupling may enhance the rigidity of the support member. The coupling may anchor the array in the outer hollow tubular element.

[0095] The adhesive may have a viscosity of between 800 millipascal seconds and 8000 millipascal seconds, preferably of between 1000 millipascal seconds and 4000 millipascal seconds.

[0096] The invention further relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising the support member described herein. The article may further comprise a substrate portion. The substrate portion may comprise a substrate.

[0097] The invention further relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising the support member described herein. The article further comprises a substrate portion. The substrate portion comprises a substrate. The support member may improve the airflow through the article. The support member may stabilize the article.

[0098] A longitudinal axis of the article may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support member. The longitudinal axis of the article may extend between a distal end of the article and a proximal end of the article.

[0099] The substrate may be an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0100] The support member may be configured to abut the substrate portion. The substrate portion may comprise a cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive the substrate.

[0101] All components of the article may be biodegradable. All components of the article may be made of biodegradable materials. All components of the article may be recyclable.

[0102] The article may be configured as a rod. The article may be cylindrical. The article may have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0103] The article may comprise an outer wrapper configured to at least partially circumscribe the support member and the substrate portion. The article may comprise an outer wrapper configured to fully circumscribe the support member and the substrate portion. The outer wrapper may be a paper outer wrapper.

[0104] The outer hollow tubular element may be a portion of the outer wrapper. The outer hollow tubular element may at least partially be circumscribed by the outer wrapper. The outer hollow tubular element may be fully circumscribed by the outer wrapper. The outer hollow tubular element may at least partially be surrounded by the outer wrapper. The outer hollow tubular element be fully surrounded by the outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may at least partially circumscribe the array wrapper. The outer wrapper may fully circumscribe the array wrapper.

[0105] The outer wrapper may comprise an adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to a seam of the outer wrapper. The adhesive may have a viscosity of between 150 millipascal seconds and 2200 millipascal seconds, preferably of between 300 millipascal seconds and 800 millipascal seconds. The adhesive may be a biodegradable adhesive. The adhesive may be selected from one of water-based adhesive, starch-based adhesive, cellulose-based adhesive, rubber-based adhesive and polyvinylactate (PVA) adhesive.

[0106] The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the support member. The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the substrate portion. The outer wrapper may join the substrate portion and the support member. The outer wrapper may have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0107] The outer wrapper may be made of a cellulosic material. The outer wrapper may be made from paper. The outer wrapper may comprise paper. The outer wrapper may be made from cardboard. The outer wrapper may comprise cardboard. The outer wrapper may have a length of between 15 millimeters and 45 millimeters, preferably of between 25 millimeters and 44 millimeters, and more preferably of between 35 millimeters and 42 millimeters. The outer wrapper may have a diameter of between 6.5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 7 millimeters and 9 millimeters, and more preferably of between 7.1 millimeters and 7.5 millimeters.

[0108] The article may have a length of between 30 millimeters and 80 millimeters, preferably of between 35 millimeters and 60 millimeters, more preferably of between 40 millimeters and 50 millimeters.

[0109] The substrate portion may have a length of between 15 millimeters and 40 millimeters, preferably of between 18 millimeters and 35 millimeters, more preferably of between 20 millimeters and 30 millimeters.

[0110] The outer wrapper may have a weight of between 20 grams to 200 grams, preferably of between 40 grams to 100 grams.

[0111] The support member may be arranged downstream of the substrate portion.

[0112] The substrate may comprise a powder. An aerosol may be formed from the powder. An aerosol, as used herein, may be a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets in air.

[0113] The article may comprise a capsule. The powder may be contained in the capsule.

[0114] The substrate portion may comprise a capsule. The capsule may comprise the substrate. The substrate may consist of a powder. The substrate may comprise a gel. The substrate may be a gel. The substrate may comprise nicotine. The substrate may comprise tobacco. The substrate may comprise hybrid botanicals. The substrate may comprise cannabidiol (CBD). The substrate may comprise tetrahydrocannabinol (THD). The substrate may comprise flavor. The flavour may comprise flavour particles. The particles may have a particle size distribution of between 50 micrometers and 200 micrometers, preferably of between 100 micrometers and 150 micrometers.

[0115] The capsule may be inserted into the cavity of the substrate portion. The substrate portion may be configured for receiving the capsule. The cavity of the substrate portion may hold the capsule. The capsule may be configured to be pierced by a piercing element. The piercing element may activate the capsule. The piercing element may be part of a holder. The substrate, such as dry powder may be released from the pierced capsule. The piercing element may push the capsule against the support member. The support member may be configured to withstand pressure exerted by the push of the capsule against the retainer portion.

[0116] The support member may restrain the movement of the capsule in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the article. The support member may be configured to improve the positioning of the capsule in the substrate portion. The support member may stablize the capsule. The support member may support the capsule to rotate upon. The support member may provide a flat surface for the capsule to rotate upon.

[0117] In use, the capsule may be pierced by the piercing element to release at least a portion of the substrate from the capsule. The piercing element may be part of a holder for the article. The substrate may be a dry powder. The user may draw on a downstream end of the article to inhale at least a portion of the released dry powder. The released dry powder may flow from the substrate portion into the mouth of the user via the support member. The capsule may be configured to rotate against the support member during inhalation. The efficiency of the release of the dry powder be improved by the rotation.

[0118] The capsule may be biodegradable. The capsule may be recyclable. The capsule may comprise hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule may be made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The capsule may comprise a wall. The wall of the capsule may define a cavity. The cavity of the capsule may hold an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity of the capsule may hold a dry powder. The wall of the capsule may comprise hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The wall of the capsule may consist of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

[0119] The substrate may comprise nicotine powder having a particle size of between 1.3 micrometers and 2 micrometers.

[0120] The capsule may have a length of between 10 millimeters and 20 millimeters, preferably of between 12 millimeters and 18 millimeters, more preferably of between 14 millimeters and 17 millimeters.

[0121] The capsule may have a diameter of between 3 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 4 millimeters and 8 millimeters, more preferably of between 5 millimeters and 7 millimeters.

[0122] The article may comprise a mouth plug arranged downstream of the support member and a front plug arranged upstream of the substrate portion. The article may comprise a mouth plug. The article may comprise a front plug.

[0123] The mouth plug may be arranged at a downstream end of the article. The mouth plug may be made from a cellulosic material. The mouth plug may be made from paper. The mouth plug may be made from cardboard. The mouth plug may have a weight of between 20 grams and 600 grams, preferably of between 40 grams and 400 grams. The mouth plug may be biodegradable. The mouth plug may comprise an aerosol outlet. The aerosol may flow through the aerosol outlet into the mouth of the consumer. The mouth plug may control pressure drop. The mouth plug may reduce powder leakage. The mouth plug may improve the appearance of the article. The mouth plug may have a length of between 10 millimeters and 20 millimeters, preferably of between 11 millimeters and 18 millimeters, and more preferably of between 12 millimeters and 15 millimeters. The aerosol outlet of the mouth plug may have a diameter of between 0.5 millimeters and 6 millimeters, preferably of between 1 millimeters and 5 millimeters, and more preferably of between 1.5 millimeters and 3 millimeters. The substrate portion may have an inner diameter of between 4 millimeters and 12 millimeters, preferably of between 5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, and more preferably of between 6.5 millimeters and 7.5 millimeters. The substrate portion may have an outer diameter of between 5 millimeters and 13 millimeters, preferably of between 6 millimeters and 11 millimeters, and more preferably of between 7.5 millimeters and 8.5 millimeters. The outer diameter of the outer hollow tubular element wrapped with the outer wrapper may be of between 6.5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 7 millimeters and 9 millimeters and more preferably of between 7.1 and 7.5 millimeters. The outer diameter of the outer hollow tubular element wrapped with the outer wrapper and the tipping paper may be of between 6.5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 7 millimeters and 9 millimeters and more preferably of between 7.2 and 8 millimeters.

[0124] The front plug may comprise an opening arranged on a central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. The opening of the front plug may have a diameter of lower than or equal to 5 millimeters, preferably of lower than or equal to 1 millimeter.

[0125] The front plug may be arranged at an upstream end of the article. The front plug may be arranged upstream of the substrate portion. The front plug may be made from a cellulosic material. The front plug may be made from paper. The front plug may be made from cardboard. The front plug may have a weight of between 20 grams and 600 grams, preferably of between 40 grams and 400 grams. The front plug may comprise an air inlet. The air inlet may have a diameter of less than 5 millimeters, preferably of less than 1 millimeter. The front plug may be biodegradable.

[0126] The substrate portion may be arranged upstream of the support member. The support member may be arranged upstream of the mouth plug. The front plug may be arranged adjacent to the substrate portion. The substrate portion may be arranged adjacent to the support member. The support member may be arranged adjacent to the mouth plug. The substrate portion may be fluidly connected to the mouth plug via the support member. The support member may be configured to fluidly connect the substrate portion and the mouth plug.

[0127] The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the mouth plug. The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the front plug. The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the substrate portion. The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the support member. The outer wrapper may at least partially surround the mouth plug, the support member, the substrate portion and the front plug. The outer wrapper may be configured to fully surround the mouth plug, the support member, the substrate portion and the front plug. The outer wrapper may be configured to join the mouth plug, the support member, the substrate portion and the front plug. The outer wrapper may hold the mouth plug, the support member, the substrate portion and the front plug together.

[0128] The article may comprise a tipping paper. The tipping paper may at least partially surround the substrate portion, the support member, and the mouth plug. The tipping paper may at least partially surround the outer wrapper. The tipping paper may be used to display information to the user. The tipping paper may display brand and product information to the user. The tipping paper may be made from cardboard. The tipping paper may be made from a cellulosic material. The tipping paper may have a diameter of between 6.5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 7 millimeters to 9 millimeters, and more preferably of between 7.2 millimeters and 8 millimeters.

[0129] The tipping paper may comprise an adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to a seam of the tipping paper. The adhesive may have a viscosity of between 1000 millipascal seconds and 5000 millipascal seconds, preferably of between 1500 millipascal seconds and 4000 millipascal seconds. The adhesive may be a biodegradable adhesive. The adhesive may be selected from one of water-based adhesive, starch-based adhesive, cellulose-based adhesive, rubber-based adhesive and polyvinylactate (PVA) adhesive.

[0130] The support member may be arranged downstream of the substrate portion.

[0131] The article may comprise a susceptor element arranged at least partially in the substrate portion. The article may comprise a susceptor element arranged fully in the substrate portion. The article may comprise a susceptor element arranged at least partially in the substrate. The article may comprise a susceptor element arranged fully in the substrate. The susceptor element may be centrally arranged. The susceptor element may be centred on the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0132] The substrate may comprise tobacco. The substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0133] The article may comprise a hollow acetate element arranged downstream of the support member.

[0134] The article may comprise a filter element. The article may comprise a front filter. The front filter may be arranged at an upstream end of the article. The article may comprise a mouthpiece filter. The mouthpiece filter may be arranged at a downstream end of the article. The substrate portion may be arranged downstream of the front filter. The support member may be arranged downstream of the substrate portion. The hollow acetate element may be arranged downstream of the support member. The mouthpiece filter may be arranged downstream of the hollow acetate element. The substrate may be configured to be heated by the susceptor element. The susceptor element may be configured to be heated by an induction coil of an aerosol-generating device. The substrate portion may comprise an outer substrate wrapper. The outer substrate wrapper may at least partially surround the substrate portion. The outer substrate wrapper may fully surround the substrate portion.

[0135] The outer wrapper may at least partially surround one or more of the front filter, the substrate portion, the support member and the hollow acetate element. The outer wrapper may join the front filter, substrate portion, support member and the hollow acetate element. A tipping paper may at least partially surround one or more of the mouthpiece filter and the hollow acetate element. The tipping paper may join the mouthpiece filter and the hollow acetate element. The tipping paper may display information to the user.

[0136] The front filter may be configured to restrain the susceptor element to the substrate portion. The support member may be configured to restrain the susceptor element to the substrate portion. The susceptor element may be arranged adjacent to the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element made from a thermally insulating material. The susceptor element may be arranged adjacent to a gap between the inner hollow tubular elements of the support member. The risk of thermal degradation of the support member by the susceptor element may be reduced.

[0137] In use, the article may be inserted into an aerosol-generating device. The device may comprise a cavity configured for receiving the article. The device may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate of the substrate portion to volatize at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The user may draw on a downstream end of the article. Alternatively, the user may draw on a downstream end of the device. The volatized aerosolforming substrate may be cooled to form an aerosol. The volatized may be cooled in one or both of the support member and the hollow acetate element to form an aerosol. The aerosol may flow towards the downstream end of the article via the support member. The user may inhale the aerosol through the downstream end of the article.

[0138] The Invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising the article described herein and an aerosol-generating device.

[0139] The aerosol-generating device may be the holder. The aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated aerosol-generating device.

[0140] The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the support member described herein which may comprise the following steps: a) providing the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements, and b) assembling the array from the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0141] The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the support member described herein comprising the following steps: a) providing the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements, and b) assembling the array from the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0142] The method may further comprise a step c) of providing an outer hollow tubular element around at least a portion of the array.

[0143] In step c), the array may be coupled to the outer hollow tubular element, The array may be coupled to the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0144] In step b), each inner hollow tubular element may be coupled to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements. Each inner hollow tubular element may be coupled by using an adhesive to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0145] In step b), the inner hollow tubular elements may be assembled in a hexagonal array. In step b), The inner hollow tubular elements may be arranged hexagonally packed.

[0146] In step c), one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at the periphery of the hexagonal array may be coupled to the outer hollow tubular element. In step c), one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at the periphery of the hexagonal array may be coupled by using an adhesive to the outer hollow tubular element.

[0147] The support member may be manufactured with the help of an assembly tool. The tool may be used in the method for manufacturing the support member described herein. The tool may be used to insert the inner hollow tubular elements into the outer hollow tubular element in the desired arrangement. The array may be assembled with the help of the tool. The tool may be used to provide the outer hollow tubular element around the array. The tool may be configured to hold the inner hollow tubular elements in the desired arrangement. The tool may be configured to hold the inner hollow tubular elements in the desired arrangement prior to providing the outer hollow tubular element around the arrangement of inner hollow tubular elements. The tool may be configured to hold the inner hollow tubular elements in a triangular array. The tool may be configured to hold the inner hollow tubular elements in a hexagonal array. The tool may be used for embodiments of the array in which the inner hollow tubular elements are not coupled to each other. The tool may be used for embodiments of the array in which the inner hollow tubular elements are not coupled to the outer hollow tubular element.

[0148] In a first embodiment of the tool, the tool may comprise a plurality of insertion jigs. The tool may comprise a base. The insertion jigs may be mounted to the base. The insertion jigs may be attached to the base. The number of insertion jigs may correspond to the number of inner hollow tubular elements to be included in the array. The insertion jigs may match the shape of the inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular element may be mounted on each of the insertion jigs. The arrangement of the insertion jigs may match the desired arrangement of the inner hollow tubular elements in the array. The insertion jigs may be arranged in a triangular array. The jigs may be arranged in a hexagonal array. The insertion jig may have an outer diameter corresponding to an inner diameter of the inner hollow tubular element. The inner diameter of the inner hollow tubular element may be the diameter of the cavity of the inner hollow tubular element.

[0149] During assembly of the support member, the outer hollow tubular element may be formed around the inner hollow tubular elements mounted on the insertion jigs. The outer wrapper may be applied around the inner hollow tubular elements mounted on the insertion jigs. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held in a desired array by the outer hollow tubular element. The insertion jigs may be pulled out of the inner hollow tubular elements. The assembly tool may be removed from the outer hollow tubular element. The first embodiment tool may be used to form the outer hollow tubular element around the inner hollow tubular elements.

[0150] In a second embodiment of the tool, the tool may comprise a tapering hollow tubular element. The tapering hollow tubular element may be a tapering ring. The tapering hollow tubular element may comprise a tapering cavity. The tapering hollow tubular element may comprise a wall. The tapering cavity may be defined by the wall of the tapering hollow tubular element. The tapering hollow tubular element may taper towards an ejection end. The ejection end may comprise an ejection opening. The tapering hollow tubular element may comprise an insertion end. The insertion end may comprise an insertion opening. The insertion end may be arranged opposite of the ejection end. A diameter of a cross-section of the insertion end may be larger than a diameter of a cross-section of the ejection end. The tapering hollow tubular element may extend between the insertion end and the ejection end.

[0151] The inner hollow tubular elements may be inserted into the insertion end of the tapering hollow tubular element. The inner hollow tubular elements may be inserted into the tapering cavity via the insertion opening of the tapering hollow tubular element. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held by the tapering hollow tubular element. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held by the tapering hollow tubular element in the desired arrangement. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held by the tapering hollow tubular element in a hexagonal array. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held by the tapering hollow tubular element in a triangular array.

[0152] The inner hollow tubular elements may be transferred into the outer hollow tubular element via the ejection end. The inner hollow tubular elements may be transferred into the outer hollow tubular element via the ejection opening. The inner hollow tubular elements may be transferred into a pre-formed outer hollow tubular element via the ejection end. The inner hollow tubular elements transferred into portion of a pre-formed outer wrapper via the ejection end. The ejection end may be configured to squeeze the inner hollow tubular elements. The ejection end may be configured to compress the inner hollow tubular elements. The second embodiment of the tool may be particularly suitable for outer hollow tubular elements of enhanced stiffness. The second embodiment of the tool particularly suitable to insert the inner hollow tubular elements in the desired arrangement into a pre-formed outer hollow tubular element.

[0153] As used herein, the terms ‘proximal’, ‘distal’, ‘downstream’ and ‘upstream’ may be used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosolgenerating article in relation to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol-generating article during use thereof. As used herein, the terms ‘proximal’, ‘distal’, ‘downstream’ and ‘upstream’ may be used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating device in relation to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol-generating device during use thereof.

[0154] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a mouth end through which in use an aerosol exits the aerosol-generating article and is delivered to a user. The mouth end may also be referred to as the proximal end. In use, a user may draw on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol-generating article in order to inhale an aerosol generated in the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a distal end opposed to the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol-generating article may also be referred to as the downstream end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of the aerosolgenerating article may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream or mouth end and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0155] As used herein, an ‘aerosol-generating device’ may relate to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the aerosol-generating article. An aerosol-generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs thorough the user's mouth. An aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, electric circuitry, a power supply, a heating chamber and a heating element.

[0156] As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term ‘smoking’ with reference to a device, article, system, substrate, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which an aerosol-forming substrate is fully or at least partially combusted. The aerosol-generating device may be arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below a combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, but at or above a temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may comprise electric circuitry. The electric circuitry may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The electric circuitry may comprise further electronic components. The electric circuitry may be configured to regulate a supply of power to the heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element continuously following activation of the aerosol-generating device or may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff- by-puff basis. The power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of pulses of electrical current. The electric circuitry may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element, and preferably to control the supply of power to the heating element dependent on the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0157] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply, typically a battery, within a main body of the aerosol-generating device. In one embodiment, the power supply is a Lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium- Iron-Phosphate, Lithium Titanate or a Lithium-Polymer battery. As an alternative, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that enables to store enough energy for one or more usage experiences; for example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of around six minutes or for a period of a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating element.

[0158] The aerosol-generating article may be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end may be a proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for the provision of air apertures arranged in the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end may be arranged downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongate extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. A longitudinal direction may be the direction extending between the open and closed ends along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0159] A longitudinal axis of a component may extend between an upstream end of the component and a downstream end of the component. A longitudinal axis of a component may extend between the distal end of the component and the proximal end of the component. A longitudinal axis of the support member may extend between an upstream end of the support member and a downstream end of the support member.

[0160] The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity.

[0161] An airflow channel may run through the cavity. Ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol-generating device, into the cavity and towards the user through the airflow channel. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece may be arranged or a user may directly draw on the aerosol-generating article. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0162] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heater assembly. The heater assembly may comprise a heating element. The heating element of the heater assembly may comprise an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys and composite materials made of a ceramic material and a metallic material.

[0163] The heating element may be part of an aerosol-generating device. The aerosolgenerating device may comprise an internal heating element or an external heating element, or both internal and external heating elements, where "internal" and "external" refer to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0164] As an alternative to an electrically resistive heating element, the heater assembly may be an inductive heater assembly. The heating element may be configured as an induction heating element. The induction heater assembly may comprise an induction coil. The induction coil may be configured to heat the susceptor element of the aerosol-generating article. The induction coil may be configured to heat the heating element. A susceptor element may comprise a material that is capable of generating heat, when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field when located in an alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor element is conductive, then typically eddy currents are induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor element is magnetic, then typically another effect that contributes to the heating is commonly referred to hysteresis losses. Hysteresis losses occur mainly due to the movement of the magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor element, because the magnetic orientation of these will align with the magnetic induction field, which alternates. Another effect contributing to the hysteresis loss is when the magnetic domains will grow or shrink within the susceptor element. Commonly all these changes in the susceptor element that happen on a nano-scale or below are referred to as “hysteresis losses”, because they produce heat in the susceptor element. Hence, if the susceptor element is both magnetic and electrically conductive, both hysteresis losses and the generation of eddy currents will contribute to the heating of the susceptor element. If the susceptor element is magnetic, but not conductive, then hysteresis losses will be the only means by which the susceptor element will heat, when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor element may be electrically conductive or magnetic or both electrically conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or several induction coils heat the susceptor element, which then transfers the heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, such that an aerosol is formed. The heat transfer may be mainly by conduction of heat. Such a transfer of heat is best, if the susceptor element is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0165] As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-generating article’ may refer to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs through the user's mouth. An aerosolgenerating article may be disposable. As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-generating article’ may refer to an inhaler article. As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-generating article’ may refer to a dry powder inhaler article.

[0166] The term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ may relate to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ may relate to a dry powder. An aerosol-forming substrate may conveniently be part of the aerosolgenerating article.

[0167] The aerosol-forming substrate may relate to a dry powder. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds which are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerine and propylene glycol.

[0168] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised tobacco material, an aerosol-former and water. Providing homogenised tobacco material may improve aerosol generation, the nicotine content and the flavour profile of the aerosol generated during heating of the aerosol-generating article. Specifically, the process of making homogenised tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaf, which more effectively enables the release of nicotine and flavours upon heating.

[0169] The aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The holder may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article. The holder may be configured to receive the article comprising a dry powder substrate. The holder may comprise a piercing element. The piercing element may be configured to pierce the capsule of the aerosol-generating article.

[0170] The article may be fitted into a holder. The piercing element may be provided by the holder. The piercing element may be inserted into the capsule and removed from the capsule by the operation of a spring in the holder. The piercing element, provided by the holder, may then be inserted into the article, piercing the capsule. The piercing element may then be retracted from the article, leaving the pierced capsule in the article.

[0171] The article may be placed in the holder. The article may be removed from the holder. The article may remain in the holder. Powder may be removed from the capsule located in the article by drawing air through the article from an air inlet located at the upstream end of the article to the mouth plug or downstream end of the article. When air is drawn through the article, from the upstream end of the article to the downstream end of the article, past the pierced capsule, particles may be released from the capsule and may be entrained into the airflow passing through the article, delivering particles to the mouthpiece or downstream end of the article and to the user. The holder may provide a swirled airflow to the downstream end of the article to induce a rotational airflow around the capsule, enabling the capsule to rotate, and improving the release of particles from the capsule in the capsule cavity. The holder may provide a swirled airflow to the downstream end of the article to induce a rotational airflow around the capsule, agitating the capsule, and improving the release of particles from the capsule in the capsule cavity.

[0172] “Inner tubular element” may refer to one or both of the inner hollow tubular element and the inner solid tubular element.

[0173] Below, there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0174] Example 1 : A support member for an aerosol-generating article, wherein the support member comprises an array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are parallelly arranged, and wherein a plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member intersects each inner hollow tubular element.

[0175] Example 2: The support member according to example 1 , wherein one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements is made from a first material, wherein the first material comprises a cellulosic material selected from one of paper, paperboard, molded paper fiber and cardboard.

[0176] Example 3: The support member according to example 2, wherein one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements is made from a first material, wherein the first material consists of a cellulosic material selected from one of paper, paperboard, molded paper fiber and cardboard.

[0177] Example 4: The support member according to example 2 or example 3, wherein one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements is made from a second material, wherein the second material is different to the first material.

[0178] Example 5: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements have a substantially circular crosssection.

[0179] Example 6: The support member according to example 5, wherein all of the inner hollow tubular elements have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0180] Example 7: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein each inner hollow tubular element has a same diameter.

[0181] Example 8: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein each inner hollow tubular element has a same length.

[0182] Example 9: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to abut one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0183] Example 10: The support member according to example 9, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to abut at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0184] Example 11 : The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0185] Example 12: The support member according to example 11 , wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled to at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0186] Example 13: The support member according to example 11 , wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled by an adhesive to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0187] Example 14: The support member according to example 12, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled by an adhesive to at least two other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0188] Example 15: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the array comprises two inner hollow tubular elements.

[0189] Example 16: The support member according to example 15, wherein the array consists of two inner hollow tubular elements. Example 17: The support member according to any of examples 1 to 14, wherein the array comprises three inner hollow tubular elements, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in a triangular array.

[0190] Example 18: The support member according example 17, wherein the array consists of three inner hollow tubular elements.

[0191] Example 19 The support member according to example 17 or example 18, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in an equilateral triangular array.

[0192] Example 20: The support member according to any of examples 1 to 14, wherein the array comprises four inner hollow tubular elements, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in a rectangular array.

[0193] Example 21 : The support member according to example 20, wherein the array consists of four inner hollow tubular elements, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in a rectangular array.

[0194] Example 22: The support member according to example 20 or example 21 , wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are cubically packed.

[0195] Example 23: The support member according to any of examples 1 to 14, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in a hexagonal array.

[0196] Example 24: The support member according to example 23, wherein the array comprises six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0197] Example 25: The support member according to example 24, wherein the array consists of six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0198] Example 26: The support member according to example 24 or example 25, wherein the array comprises a centrally arranged inner solid tubular element.

[0199] Example 27: The support member according to any of examples 1 to 14, wherein the inner hollow tubular elements are hexagonally packed.

[0200] Example 28: The support member according to example 27, wherein the array comprises 3*n*(n-1)+1 inner hollow tubular elements, wherein n is a natural number equal or greater than 1.

[0201] Example 29: The support member according to example 28, wherein n is equal to or less than to 2.

[0202] Example 30: The support member according to any of example 27 to 29, wherein the array comprises seven inner hollow tubular elements.

[0203] Example 31 : The support member according to example 30, wherein the array consists of seven inner hollow tubular elements. Example 32: The support member according to example 30 or example 31 , wherein a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is coupled to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0204] Example 33: The support member according to example 32, wherein a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is coupled by an adhesive to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements.

[0205] Example 34: The support member according to any of examples 27 to 33, wherein a reinforcing element is provided within a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element.

[0206] Example 35: The support member according to example 34, wherein the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is filled with a reinforcing material.

[0207] Example 36: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the support member comprises an outer hollow tubular element having an interior surface and defining an interior cavity of the support member, wherein the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is arranged at least partially within the interior cavity of the support member, wherein at least a portion of the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0208] Example 37: The support member according to example 36, wherein the support member comprises an outer hollow tubular element having an interior surface and defining an interior cavity of the support member, wherein the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is arranged fully within the interior cavity of the support member, wherein at least a portion of the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0209] Example 38: The support member according to example 36 or example 37, wherein the outer hollow tubular element is made from a cellulosic material selected from one of paper, paperboard, molded paper fiber and cardboard.

[0210] Example 39: The support member according to any of examples 36 to 38, wherein the outer hollow tubular element has a substantially circular cross-section.

[0211] Example 40: The support member according to any of examples 36 to 39, wherein the outer hollow tubular element is configured as an array wrapper at least partially circumscribing the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0212] Example 41 : The support member according to example 40, wherein the outer hollow tubular element is configured as an array wrapper fully circumscribing the array of the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0213] Example 42: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least a portion of the array is configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element. Example 43: The support member according to example 42, wherein at least a portion of the array is configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0214] Example 44: The support member according to any of examples 1 to 27 comprising the outer hollow tubular element according to any of examples 36 to 43, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is arranged to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0215] Example 45: The support member according to example 44, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0216] Example 46: The support member according to example 45, wherein at least a portion of each of the inner hollow tubular elements is configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0217] Example 47: The support member according to an of examples 30 to 35 comprising the outer hollow tubular element according to any of examples 36 to 43, wherein at least a portion of each of six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around a centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is configured to abut the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0218] Example 48: The support member according to example 47, wherein at least a portion of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is configured to be coupled to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0219] Example 49: The support member according to example 48, wherein at least a portion of each of the six inner hollow tubular elements arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element is configured to be coupled by an adhesive to the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

[0220] Example 50: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the support member has a length of between 3 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 5 millimeters and 9 millimeters, and more preferably of between 6 millimeters and 8 millimeters.

[0221] Example 51 : The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the array of hollow tubular elements has a diameter of between 3 millimeters to 11 millimeters, preferably of between 4.8 millimeters and 9.8 millimeters, and more preferably of between 6.5 millimeters and 7.5 millimeters.

[0222] Example 52: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements have an inner diameter of between 1 millimeter and 7 millimeters, preferably of between 1.5 millimeters and 6 millimeters, and more preferably of between 2 millimeters and 5.5 millimeters.

[0223] Example 53: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the support member has a weight of between 20 grams and 700 grams, preferably of between 40 grams and 400 grams.

[0224] Example 54: The support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive, when present, is selected from one of water-based adhesive, starch- based adhesive, cellulose-based adhesive, rubber-based adhesive and polyvinylactate adhesive.

[0225] Example 55: An aerosol-generating article comprising the support member according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the article further comprises a substrate portion, wherein the substrate portion comprises a substrate.

[0226] Example 56: The article according to example 55, wherein the support member is configured to abut the substrate portion.

[0227] Example 57: The article according to example 55 or example 56, wherein the article comprises an outer wrapper configured to at least partially circumscribe the support member and the substrate portion.

[0228] Example 58: The article according to example 57, wherein the article comprises an outer wrapper configured to fully circumscribe the support member and the substrate portion.

[0229] Example 59: The article according to example 57 or 58, wherein the outer wrapper is a paper outer wrapper.

[0230] Example 60: The article according to any of examples 57 to 59, wherein the outer wrapper has a weight of between 20 grams to 200 grams, preferably of between 40 grams to 100 grams.

[0231] Example 61 : The article according to any of examples 55 to 60, wherein the article has a length of between 30 millimeters and 80 millimeters, preferably of between 35 millimeters and 60 millimeters, more preferably of between 40 millimeters and 50 millimeters.

[0232] Example 62: The article according to any of examples 55 to 61 , wherein the substrate portion has a length of between 15 millimeters and 40 millimeters, preferably of between 18 millimeters and 35 millimeters, more preferably of between 20 millimeters and 30 millimeters.

[0233] Example 63: The article according to any of examples 55 to 62, wherein the support member is arranged downstream of the substrate portion.

[0234] Example 64: The article according to example 63, wherein the substrate comprises a powder.

[0235] Example 65: The article according to example 63 or example 64, wherein the article comprises a capsule. Example 66: The article according to example 65, wherein the powder according to example 64 is contained in the capsule.

[0236] Example 67: The article according to any of examples 63 to 66, wherein the substrate comprises nicotine powder having a particle size of between 1.3 micrometers and 2 micrometers.

[0237] Example 68: The article according to any of examples 65 to 67, wherein the capsule has a length of between 10 millimeters and 20 millimeters, preferably of between 12 millimeters and 18 millimeters, more preferably of between 14 millimeters and 17 millimeters.

[0238] Example 69: The article according to any of examples 65 to 68, wherein the capsule has a diameter of between 3 millimeters and 10 millimeters, preferably of between 4 millimeters and 8 millimeters, more preferably of between 5 millimeters and 7 millimeters.

[0239] Example 70: The article according to any of examples 63 to 69 comprising a mouth plug arranged downstream of the support member and a front plug arranged upstream of the substrate portion.

[0240] Example 71 : The article according to any of examples 55 to 62, wherein the support member is arranged downstream of the substrate portion.

[0241] Example 72: The article according to example 71 comprising a susceptor element arranged at least partially in the substrate portion.

[0242] Example 73: The article according to example 72 comprising a susceptor element arranged fully in the substrate portion.

[0243] Example 74: The article according to any of examples 71 to 73, wherein the substrate comprises tobacco.

[0244] Example 75: The article according to any of examples 71 to 74, wherein the substrate comprises nicotine.

[0245] Example 76: The article according to any of examples 71 to 75, wherein the article comprises a hollow acetate element arranged downstream of the support member.

[0246] Example 77: The article according to any of examples 71 to 76, wherein the article comprises a filter element.

[0247] Example 78: An aerosol-generating system comprising the article according to any of examples 55 to 77 and an aerosol-generating device.

[0248] Example 79: A method for manufacturing the support member according to any of examples 1 to 54 comprising the following steps: a) providing the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements, and b) assembling the array from the plurality of inner hollow tubular elements.

[0249] Example 80: The method according to example 79, further comprising the following step: c) providing an outer hollow tubular element around at least a portion of the array.

[0250] Example 81: The method according to example 80, wherein in step c), the array is coupled to the outer hollow tubular element.

[0251] Example 82: The method according to example 81, wherein in step c), the array is coupled to the outer hollow tubular element by an adhesive.

[0252] Example 83: The method according to any of examples 79 to 82, wherein in step b), each inner hollow tubular element is coupled to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0253] Example 84: The method according to example 83, wherein in step b), each inner hollow tubular element is coupled by using an adhesive to one or more other inner hollow tubular elements.

[0254] Example 85: The method according to any of example 79 to 84, wherein in step b), the inner hollow tubular elements are assembled in a hexagonal array.

[0255] Example 86: The method according to example 85, wherein in step b), the inner hollow tubular elements are assembled in a hexagonal array and arranged hexagonally packed.

[0256] Example 87: The method according to example 86, wherein in step c), one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at the periphery of the hexagonal array are coupled to the outer hollow tubular element.

[0257] Example 88: The method according to example 87, wherein in step c), one or more of the inner hollow tubular elements arranged at the periphery of the hexagonal array are coupled by using an adhesive to the outer hollow tubular element. Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0258] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0259] Fig. 1 shows shows an aerosol-generating article of the invention;

[0260] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the article of the invention;

[0261] Fig. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the article of the invention;

[0262] Fig. 4 shows different embodiments of a array of the invention;

[0263] Fig. 5 shows different embodiments of the support member of the invention;

[0264] Fig. 6 shows an assembly tool for assembling the support member;

[0265] Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of the assembly tool for assembling the support member; and

[0266] Fig. 8 shows flowchart describing steps for manufacturing the article of the invention. Fig. 1A shows an article 10 of the invention. The article 10 comprises a support member 12. The article 10 comprises substrate portion 14. The article 10 comprises a front plug 16. The article 10 comprises a mouth plug 18. The substrate portion 14 comprises a capsule 20. The capsule 20 comprises a wall defining a cavity. The cavity of the capsule 20 contains dry powder. The substrate portion 14 is arranged upstream of the support member 12. The substrate portion 14 is arranged abutting the support member 12. The capsule 20 may come into contact with an upstream end of the support member 12. The front plug 16 is arranged at an upstream end of the article 10. The mouth plug 18 is arranged at a downstream end of the article 10. Fig. 1A further shows a longitudinal axis (dashed line 21) of the article 10.

[0267] The article 10 comprises an outer wrapper 22. The outer wrapper 22 circumscribes the substrate portion 14 and the support member 12. The outer wrapper 22 surrounds the substrate portion 14 and the support member 12. The outer wrapper 22 holds the substrate portion 14, the support member 12, the front plug 16 and the mouth plug 18 together.

[0268] The article comprises a tipping paper 24. The tipping paper 24 circumscribes a part of the substrate portion 14, the support member 12 and the mouth plug 18. The tipping paper 24 may be configured to display information to the user. For example, the tipping paper 24 may display product and brand information.

[0269] In use, the capsule 20 may be pierced by a piercing element (not shown). The user may draw on the mouth plug 18 of the article. Dry powder may be pulled out of the pierced capsule 20 via the support member 12 into the mouth of the drawing consumer.

[0270] Figs. 1 B to 1 D show cross-sections of different parts of the article of Fig. 1 A. Fig. 1 B of the view of the upstream end of the article 10. Fig 1C shows a cross-section of the support member 12. Fig. 1 D shows the view of the downstream end of the article 10. The cross-section shown in Fig 1C is a cross-section in a plane extending orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the support member 12.

[0271] Referring to Fig. 1C, the support member 12 is surrounded by the outer wrapper 22. The support member 12 comprises an outer hollow tubular element 26. The outer hollow tubular element 26 is surrounded by the outer wrapper 22. The outer hollow tubular element 26 comprises an interior surface 28. The outer hollow tubular element 26 defines a cavity 30 of the support member 12. The outer hollow tubular element 26 has a circular cross-section.

[0272] The support member 12 comprises an array 32. The array 32 is arranged in the cavity 30 of the support member 12. The array 32 comprises seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 (in figure 1C only one of the inner hollow tubular elements is labelled with reference numeral 34). Each of the seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 has a circular cross-section. Each of the seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 are configured to be the same. Each of the seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 have the same diameter. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 are parallelly arranged.

[0273] The seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 are arranged hexagonally packed. Six inner hollow tubular elements 34 are arranged around one centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34. The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34 abuts each of the other six other inner hollow tubular elements 34 at contact areas 36 (in Fig. 1C, only one of such contact areas is labelled with reference numeral 36). The centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34 is coupled by an adhesive (indicated by a solid black circle) to each of the other six inner hollow tubular elements 34 surrounding the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34 at the contact areas 36.

[0274] Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements 34 arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34 abuts the interior surface 28 of the outer hollow tubular element 26 at contact areas 38 (in figure 1 C, only one of such contact areas is labelled with reference numeral 38). Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements 34 arranged around the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element 34 is coupled by an adhesive (indicated by a solid black triangle) to the interior surface 28 of the outer hollow tubular element 26 at contact areas 38.

[0275] Each of the six inner hollow tubular elements 34 is arranged abutting another of the six inner hollow tubular elements at contact areas 40 (in Fig. 1 C, only one of such contact areas is labelled with reference numeral 40). Each of the six inner hollow tubular element 34 is coupled by the adhesive (indicated by a solid black square) to another of the six inner hollow tubular elements 34 at contact areas 40. Each of the inner hollow tubular elements 34 is coupled by an adhesive to the neighbouring inner hollow tubular elements at contact areas 36 and 40.

[0276] The mouth plug 18 shown in Fig. 1 D comprises an air outlet 42. The mouth plug 18 is surrounded by the outer wrapper 22 and the tipping paper 24. Dry powder released from the capsule 20 may be inhaled by the user drawing on the mouth plug 18 of the article via the air outlet 42.

[0277] Fig. 2A shows another embodiment of the article 10 of the invention. The article 10 comprises the support member 12. The remarks on the structure of the support member concerning Fig. 1 apply, mutatis mutandis, to the support member 12 of Fig. 2.

[0278] The article 10 comprises a mouthpiece filter 44. The mouthpiece filter 44 is arranged at a downstream end of the article 10. The article 10 comprises a front filter 46. The front filter 46 is arranged at an upstream end of the article 10. The article 10 comprises a substrate portion 14. The substrate portion 14 comprises an aerosol-forming substrate 48. The substrate portion 12 comprises a susceptor element 50. The susceptor element 50 is arranged in the aerosol forming substrate 48. The susceptor element 50 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 48. The substrate portion 14 is surrounded by an outer substrate wrapper 52. The article 10 comprises a hollow acetate element 54. The mouthpiece filter 44 is arranged downstream of the hollow acetate element 54. The hollow acetate element 54 is arranged downstream of the support member 12. The support member 12 is arranged downstream of the substrate portion 14. The substrate portion 14 is arranged downstream of the front filter 46.

[0279] The article comprises an outer wrapper 22. The outer wrapper 22 circumscribes at least a part of the hollow acetate element 54, the support member 12, the substrate portion 14 and the front filter 46. The article 10 comprises a tipping paper 24. The tipping paper 24 circumscribes at least the part of the hollow acetate element 54 and the mouthpiece filter 44.

[0280] In use, the article 10 may be inserted into a cavity of an electrically heated aerosolgenerating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heater assembly. The heater assembly may be configured to heat the susceptor element 50. The susceptor element 50 may be configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 48. The susceptor element 50 may volatize at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 48. An aerosol may be formed from the volatilized aerosol-forming substrate 48. The aerosol may flow towards the downstream end via the support member 12 and the hollow acetate tube 54. The user may draw on mouthpiece filter 44 of the article 10 to inhale the aerosol.

[0281] Fig. 2B shows a cross-section of the substrate portion 14. The substrate portion is surrounded by the outer wrapper 22. The substrate portion comprises aerosol-forming substrate 48 arranged around the susceptor element 50. The substrate portion 14 is surrounded by the outer substrate wrapper 52.

[0282] Fig. 2C shows a cross-section of the support member 12. The remarks relating to Fig. 1C apply equally to Fig. 2C. The support member restrains one or both of the susceptor element 50 and the substrate 48

[0283] Fig. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the aerosol-generating article 10 of the invention. The article 10 comprises a substrate portion 14. The substrate portion 14 comprises a capsule 20. The capsule 20 may hold a dry powder substrate. The article 10 comprises the support member 12. The support member 12 abuts the capsule 20.

[0284] Fig. 4 shows arrays 32 of the support member 12 of the invention. Figs. 4A and 4B show a first embodiment of the array 32 of the support member 12. Figs. 4C and 4D show a second embodiment of the array 32 of the support member 12. Figs. 4A and 4C show a crosssection of the array 32. The cross-section shown in Figs. 4A and 4C is a cross-section in a plane extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member. Figs. 4B and 4D show a three-dimensional view of the array 32. The embodiment of the array of Figs. 4A and 4B corresponds to the array shown in Figs. 1 and 2. In Fig. 4B, a longitudinal axis of the support member is shown (dashed line 41). In the shown example, the longitudinal axis of the support member corresponds to a central longitudinal axis of the centrally arranged inner hollow tubular element.

[0285] Both embodiments comprise seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 arranged in a hexagonally packed. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 are parallelly arranged. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 of both embodiments are of circular cross-section. The diameter and the length of the seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 is the same.

[0286] In the embodiment of the array shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, the inner hollow tubular elements are coupled to each other by an adhesive (indicated by the solid black circles and solid black squares) at the contact areas 36 and 40. The coupling of the inner hollow tubular elements enhances the strength of the array. Adhesive (indicated by the solid black triangles) is arranged at contact areas 38 between the peripheral inner hollow tubular elements and the interior surface of the outer hollow tubular element when the array 32 is inserted in to the outer hollow tubular element (not shown).

[0287] In the embodiment of the array 32 shown in Figs. 4C and 4D, the inner hollow tubular elements 34 are not coupled to each other at the contact areas 36, 38 and 40 (as indicated by the absence of solid black squares, circles and triangles at the contact areas). The inner hollow tubular elements 34 may be held together by an outer wrapper 22 surrounding the inner hollow tubular elements 34. The six peripheral inner hollow tubular elements 34 may be in contact with the outer wrapper 22 (not shown).

[0288] Fig. 5 shows three embodiments of support member 12. Figs. 5A, 5B show a first embodiment of the support member 12. Figs. 5C and 5D show a second embodiment of the support member 12. Figs. 5A and 5C show a cross-section of the corresponding support member 12. The cross-section shown in Figs. 5A and 5C is a cross-section in a plane extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member 12. Figs. 5B and 5D show a three-dimensional view of the corresponding support member 12.

[0289] The support members 12 of Fig. 5 differ from each other by the configuration of the array 32. The number of inner hollow tubular elements 34 in the three embodiments of the support member 12 is different. The diameter of the inner hollow tubular elements 34 in the three embodiments of the support member 12 is different.

[0290] The embodiment of the support member 12 of Fig. 5A and 5B corresponds to the support member 12 of Figs. 1 and 2. The array 32 corresponds to the array 32 shown in Figs. 4A and 4B. The embodiment of the support member 12 of Fig. 5A and 5B comprises seven inner hollow tubular elements 34 arranged in a hexagonally packed. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 are glued to each other at the contact areas 36 and 40 by an adhesive (as indicated by the solid black circles and squares). The peripheral inner hollow tubular elements 34 are glued to the outer hollow tubular element 26 at the contact areas 38 by an adhesive (indicated by the solid black triangles).

[0291] The embodiment of the support member of Figs. 5C and 5D comprises three inner hollow tubular elements 34. The inner hollow tubular elements are arranged in a triangular array. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 abut each other at contact areas 56 (only one of such contact areas is labelled with reference numeral 56 in Fig. 5C). The inner hollow tubular elements are attached to each other at contact areas 56 by an adhesive (indicated by the solid black circles). The adhesive is arranged between the corresponding inner hollow tubular elements 34. The diameter of the inner hollow tubular elements of Figs. 5C and 5D is larger than the diameter of the inner hollow tubular elements of Figs. 5A and 5B. Each of the inner hollow tubular elements 34 of Figs. 5C and 5D is coupled to the outer hollow tubular element 26 at contact areas 38 (only one such contact areas is labelled with reference numeral 38 in Fig. 5C) by an adhesive (as indicated by the solid black triangles).

[0292] Fig. 6 shows different perspectives of assembly tool 58 for manufacturing the support member. Fig 6A shows a side view, Fig 6B shows a % view, and Fig. 6C shows a frontal view of the tool 58. The tool 58 is particularly useful for assembling a array 32 in which the inner hollow tubular elements 34 are not coupled to each other by an adhesive. The tool 58 comprises a plurality of insertion jigs 60. Each insertion jigs 60 may be configured to be circumscribed by an inner hollow tubular element 34. The tool 58 comprises a base 62. The insertion jigs 60 are attached to the base 62. The insertion jigs 60 are arranged to match the desired array of the inner hollow tubular elements 34 in the array. The insertion jigs 62 may be used to hold the inner hollow tubular elements 34 in the desired arrangement before locking the inner hollow tubular elements 34 in that arrangement. In the example shown, the inner hollow tubular elements 34 are to be arranged in a hexagonal array as shown in Figs. 4A and 4B. The tool 58 of Fig. 6 comprises seven insertion jigs 60. The insertion jigs 60 of the tool of Fig. 6 are arranged in a hexagonal array. The insertion jigs 60 may be longer than the hollow tubular elements 34.

[0293] In use, an inner hollow tubular element 34 is arranged around each insertion jig 60. An outer wrapper 22 may be arranged around the arrangement of inner hollow tubular elements 34 on the insertion jigs 60. The outer wrapper 22 may be tightened around the inner hollow tubular elements 34 on the insertion jigs 60. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 may be restrained in the arrangement defined by the insertion jigs 60 by the outer wrapper 22.

[0294] Fig. 7 shows different perspectives of a tool 58 for assembling the array 32. Fig. 7A shows a side view and Fig. 7B shows a tilted top view of the tool 58. The tool 58 is particularly useful for assembling an array 32 in which the inner hollow tubular elements 34 are not coupled to each other by an adhesive. The tool 58 may be used with an outer wrapper 22 which has been pre-formed into a desired shape prior, such as the hollow tube, to assembling the array 32.

[0295] The tool 58 comprises a tapering hollow tubular element 64. The tapering hollow tubular element 64 tapers towards an ejection end 66. The ejection end 66 may comprise an ejection opening. The tool 58 comprises an insertion end 68. The insertion end 68 is arranged opposite of the ejection end 66. The diameter of a cross-section of the insertion end 68 is larger than the diameter of a cross-section of the ejection end 66. The tapering hollow tubular element 64 extents between the insertion end 66 and the ejection end 68. The tapering hollow tubular element 64 comprises a tapering cavity. The tapering cavity is defined by a wall of the tapering hollow tubular element 64. The tapering hollow tubular element 64 comprises an insertion opening. The insertion opening is arranged at the insertion end 68 of the tool. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 may be inserted into the tapering hollow tubular element 64 via the insertion opening. The inner hollow tubular elements 34 may be arranged in the desired array in the cavity of the tapering hollow tubular element 64. In the example of Fig. 7, the inner hollow tubular elements 34 are arranged in a hexagonal array. The diameter of the ejection end may be slightly smaller than a diameter of the array of inner hollow tubular elements. The inner hollow tubular elements may be held in the tool in the desired array by the tapering hollow tubular element.

[0296] In use, the array of inner hollow tubular elements 34 arranged in the tapering hollow tubular element 64 may be inserted via the ejection end 66 into the outer hollow tubular element, for example a portion of a pre-formed outer wrapper.

[0297] Fig. 8 is a flowchart giving an overview of the manufacturing of the article 10 of the invention. Some of the steps are illustrated with the article of the corresponding step. In step 1 , the front plug 16 and the mouth plug 18 are made. In step 2, two front plugs 16, two mouth plugs 18 and two support members 12 are enclosed by an outer wrapper 22 to form a rod. In step 3, the rod is cut into two separate articles at the mouth plug end. In step 4a, the mouth plug 18 is curled towards a central longitudinal axis of the article 10. In step 4b, it is checked whether the curling was correctly carried out. If the curling was not carried out correctly, the article 10 is rejected or reworked. If the curling was correctly carried out, a capsule 20 is inserted into the substrate portion 14 in step 5a. In step 5b, it is checked whether the capsule 20 was inserted into the substrate portion 14 correctly. If the capsule 20 was not inserted correctly into the substrate portion 14, the article 10 is rejected or reworked. If the capsule 20 was inserted correctly into the substrate portion 14, the front plug 16 is flanged in step 6a. In step 6b, it is checked whether the flanging was carried out correctly. If the flanging was not carried out correctly, the article 10 is rejected or reworked. If the flanging was carried out correctly, the article 10 is packaged.

Claims

1. A support element for an aerosol generating article, wherein the support element comprises an array of a plurality of internal hollow tubular elements, wherein the internal hollow tubular elements are arranged in parallel, and wherein a plane passing perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support element intersects each internal hollow tubular element, wherein the array comprises a centrally located internal solid tubular element and six internal hollow tubular elements, wherein the six internal hollow tubular elements and the internal solid tubular element are hexagonally packed.

2. The support member of claim 1, wherein one or more internal hollow tubular members are made of a first material, wherein the first material comprises a cellulosic material selected from one of paper, cardboard, molded paper fiber, and cardboard.

3. A support element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein all of the internal hollow tubular elements have a substantially circular cross-section.

4. A support member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each internal hollow tubular member has the same diameter.

5. A support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of each of the internal hollow tubular elements is configured to abut one or more other internal hollow tubular elements.

6. A support member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of each of the internal hollow tubular members is configured to be connected to one or more other internal hollow tubular members.

7. The support element according to claim 6, wherein at least a portion of each of the internal hollow tubular elements is configured to be connected by means of an adhesive to one or more other internal hollow tubular elements.

8. The support element according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of each of the internal hollow tubular elements is configured to be connected by means of an adhesive to at least two other internal hollow tubular elements.

9. A support element according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the support element comprises an outer hollow tubular element having an inner surface and forming an inner cavity of the support element, wherein an array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is located at least partially in the inner cavity of the support element, wherein at least a part of the array of a plurality of inner hollow tubular elements is located with the possibility of adjoining the inner surface of the outer hollow tubular element.

10. The support member of claim 9, wherein the outer hollow tubular member is made of a cellulosic material selected from one of paper, cardboard, molded paper fiber, and cardboard.

11. An aerosol generating article comprising a support member according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the article further comprises a substrate portion, wherein the substrate portion comprises a substrate.

12. An aerosol generating system comprising the article of claim 11 and an aerosol generating device.

13. A method for manufacturing a support element according to any one of paragraphs 1-10, comprising the following steps: a) providing a plurality of internal tubular elements and b) assembly of an array of multiple internal tubular elements, wherein the array comprises a centrally located inner solid tubular element and six inner hollow tubular elements, wherein the six inner hollow tubular elements and the inner solid tubular element are arranged hexagonally and packed.